New Covid-19 Variants Detected in India as Cases Surge Across States; High Alert in Uttarakhand
India is witnessing a gradual rise in Covid-19 cases, with fresh infections reported across multiple states, including Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) has confirmed the presence of new variants — NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 — as of May 2025. The Union Health Ministry has intensified monitoring while state governments have issued advisories and alerts to contain the spread.
According to INSACOG, one case of NB.1.8.1 was detected in Tamil Nadu in April, and four LF.7 cases were identified in Gujarat this May. Both are currently classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as “Variants Under Monitoring,” not yet considered “Variants of Concern.”
The most common variant circulating in India remains JN.1, accounting for 53% of all samples, followed by BA.2 (26%) and other Omicron subvariants.
Delhi recorded 23 new Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours, prompting the government to issue a preparedness advisory. Hospitals have been directed to ensure the availability of beds, oxygen, and essential medicines. All positive samples are to be sent for genome sequencing to detect any further variant spread.
In Maharashtra, particularly Thane, 10 new cases were reported in the last three days. The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) said all patients have mild symptoms and are isolating at home. The civic body assured that the situation is under control and appealed to citizens not to panic.
A high alert was issued in Uttarakhand after two Covid-19 cases — including a doctor from AIIMS Rishikesh — tested positive. Officials confirmed that both individuals had travelled from out of state. A 57-year-old woman from Gujarat who had come to Rishikesh for religious purposes also tested positive and is under treatment.
The Karnataka Health Department issued an advisory citing a gradual rise in Covid-19 cases in Bengaluru over the last 20 days. Among the cases is a nine-month-old infant who tested positive but remains stable. The public has been advised to wear masks in crowded areas and follow basic hygiene protocols.
Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav confirmed four new cases — three in Visakhapatnam and one in Rayalaseema. The initial case in Vizag had no travel history, raising concerns of local transmission.
In Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, four new infections have been reported. Three patients are in home isolation, while one is admitted to a private hospital. Among the patients is an 18-year-old woman and an elderly couple who recently returned from Bengaluru.
The Union Health Ministry emphasized that while Covid-19 is now treated like a seasonal viral infection, basic preventive measures must continue. The ministry reiterated the importance of mask-wearing, hand hygiene, and avoiding unnecessary gatherings, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and immunocompromised.
Hospitals have been asked to remain vigilant and report any surge in influenza-like illnesses to the IHIP portal under the L-form.
